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Travelling alone for the first time is exciting — but also a little nerve-racking! Your first solo trip will push you out of your comfort zone, introduce you to people from all around the world, and help you embrace time alone.
Beyond that, you’ll figure out how to find your way around new countries and immerse yourself in new cultures at your own pace — the kind of experience that builds real self-confidence. Still not sure about solo travel? Check out my Solo Travel vs Group Travel post, where I weigh up the pros and cons of each!
A common misconception about solo travel is that it’s expensive. Sure, you don’t have someone to split costs with, but you can absolutely do it on a budget. With just a cheap flight and a carry-on bag, you can be on your way.
If you’ve been thinking about taking a solo trip but keep putting it off, consider this your sign — go for it. Even if it’s just once, I promise you won’t regret it. Ten years from now, you’ll be glad you took the leap rather than wondering what if. The advice below comes straight from my own solo travel experiences to help you know what to expect. Ready to jump into the unknown? Let’s go!
Why You Should Try Travelling Alone at Least Once
Travelling alone at least once in your life is something everyone should experience. In a world ruled by timelines — school, university, career, marriage — it’s easy to lose sight of yourself in the rush. Years can pass before you realise you’re heading down a path that doesn’t feel right. That’s where solo travel comes in.
It’s the perfect chance to silence the noise and finally listen to yourself — what you want, not what others expect. You don’t have to compromise or follow anyone else’s plan.
When I took my first solo trip, I realised how much I relied on others to make decisions. I’m naturally indecisive — even choosing where to eat or what to do for the day felt daunting at first. But that’s the beauty of solo travel: it forces you to decide for yourself. It nudges you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way.
You learn to trust yourself, embrace spontaneity, and enjoy the freedom that comes with being completely independent, which can be a bit overwhelming at first. Most importantly, solo travel brings clarity. Whether you’re figuring out your next step in life or simply proving to yourself that you can do it, travelling alone shows you just how capable, confident, and resilient you really are.
The Benefits of Travelling Alone
I’ve written a whole other post comparing solo travel vs group travel — definitely check it out if you want an in-depth look at both! But for now, here are a few of the biggest benefits of travelling alone:
- Total freedom – Plan your day exactly how you want, without needing to compromise.
- Boosts confidence – Navigating airports, language barriers, and new cities builds independence.
- Meet new people – Solo travellers often connect more easily with locals and fellow travellers.
- Self-discovery – Time alone allows for reflection and reconnecting with your goals and passions.
- Spontaneity and flexibility – Change plans on a whim and embrace unexpected adventures.
- Memorable experiences – Challenges and new encounters often lead to the most rewarding travel stories.
Best Destinations for First-Time Solo Travellers
Travelling solo for the first time can be intimidating, so choosing the right destination is key. Look for places that are safe, easy to navigate, and full of opportunities to meet other travellers. Here are some top picks:
- Barcelona, Spain – A vibrant city with friendly locals, incredible food, and plenty of social hostels, Barcelona is a great first step for solo travellers. Spend a few days here to get a taste of solo travel without feeling overwhelmed by a larger trip.
- Lisbon, Portugal – Compact, walkable streets, welcoming locals, and affordable accommodation make Lisbon a stress-free city to explore alone.
- Tokyo, Japan – Extremely safe and easy to navigate, with efficient transport and endless unique experiences, from food markets to temples.
- Bangkok, Thailand – This city is buzzing with energy, lots of cheap street food, and social backpacker hostels.
- Bali, Indonesia – A digital nomad hub, Bali offers tropical beauty, affordable living, and a ready-made community.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – Safe, bike-friendly, and full of social cafés, canals, and museums.
- New Zealand – A dream for solo adventurers who love outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and road trips, with friendly locals along the way.
- Reykjavik, Iceland – Compact, safe, and surrounded by natural wonders, perfect for first-time solo travellers seeking adventure and tranquillity.
Top Tip: For your first solo trip, pick a destination with a strong backpacker or expat community — it makes meeting people much easier! I also highly recommend staying in hostels, even if it’s in your own private room.
How to Prepare for Your First Solo Trip
Do Your Research and Plan Your Itinerary
If you’re feeling a bit nervous about your first solo adventure, take some time to plan it out. Use my free solo travel planner at the bottom of this page to map out your trip, including where to stay and what you want to do.
It doesn’t need to be a rigid itinerary – leave some room for spontaneity! You never know when a local or fellow traveller will recommend an amazing spot you hadn’t even considered.
But having most of your accommodation and transport sorted in advance will help you to relax, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure rather than stressing over logistics once you’re out there.
Get Travel Insurance for Peace of Mind
Things can go wrong when travelling – whether you’re solo or not. Flights get delayed, luggage mysteriously vanishes into the abyss, and sometimes, you get a little too adventurous with street food. That’s why travel insurance is an absolute must.
You can often get a decent policy for just a few pounds – money well spent if it saves you a fortune when something goes wrong. It’s basically your safety net for all those just-in-case moments. And honestly, peace of mind is priceless when you’re out there exploring the world on your own!
Buy a Local SIM Card to Stay Connected
I once made a drunken phone call from South Korea back home, and it was a painful £60 lesson that I never repeated. Roaming charges are no joke, and getting a local SIM card (or an eSIM) is hands down one of the smartest moves you can make while solo travelling. It’ll save you from eyewatering fees and make sure you’ve got a stable connection – whether you’re keeping in touch with family or dealing with an emergency.
An easy option is getting a Yesim international eSIM before you go. It works in 150+ countries, it’s pay-as-you-go and best of all – there’s no faffing about swapping SIM cards and praying you don’t misplace your original one. Just select your country and you’ll have an instant connection.
Don’t Expect Everything to Be Perfect
Let’s get one thing straight – your first solo trip will not be all sunshine and rainbows. There will be highs, there will be lows, and you’ll probably run the full emotional spectrum (from “I’m living my best life” to “Why did I think this was a good idea?!”).
And guess what? That’s completely normal. Solo travel isn’t about everything being perfect – it’s about embracing the journey, the ups, the downs, and all the in-between moments. You’ll learn a lot about yourself along the way, and that’s what makes it worth it.
Even if you’re not loving every second of your first solo adventure, take a moment to appreciate the fact that you’re doing it anyway. The courage it takes to travel alone is a massive achievement, so give yourself credit for just showing up. The rest will fall into place!
Common Fears About Travelling Alone (and How to Overcome Them)
Taking Photographs of Yourself
When you’re travelling solo, you won’t always have someone to take photos of you in all these amazing places. Sure, you can ask someone nearby (and they’ll probably say yes with a smile), but let’s be honest – most strangers won’t know what you’re looking for, the angle you want, or whether it should be landscape or portrait. And then what do you do when you’re in the middle of nowhere with no one around to help? This is where a selfie stick tripod is super useful in both situations!
Not only does a tripod hardly take up any space in your luggage, but it also comes with a handy remote control, so you can click the button and take the shot without running back and forth to set up a timer. I even took mine on my recent Morocco trip, even though I was travelling with someone else, just because it was that good.
Now, I won’t lie – setting up your tripod at first might feel a bit awkward and even a tad embarrassing. You’ll probably look around, wondering if anyone’s judging your photo session. But if you persevere, by the end of your trip, you’ll feel so much more comfortable taking photos of yourself on your solo adventure!
So, embrace the awkwardness. Because when you look back in a few years, you’ll want to see yourself in the pictures, not just some generic photo of a landmark that you could’ve Googled. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Build up to Eating at a Restaurant Alone
One of the biggest fears for many solo travellers is the thought of eating alone, especially in a busy restaurant. If that thought fills you with dread, don’t worry! You don’t need to dive straight into the deep end. There are plenty of ways to ease into it so that by the end of your trip, you’ll be completely comfortable (or a bit more comfortable) dining solo.
Start small by staying somewhere with a kitchen, so you can cook for yourself, or grab a takeaway and find a scenic spot to enjoy your meal. One of my favourite memories was picking up a pizza and a bottle of wine in Paris, then heading down to the River Seine to eat it with an unbeatable view of the Eiffel Tower.
Once you’re feeling a bit braver, take the plunge into a restaurant. But you don’t have to sit there twiddling your thumbs. Bring a book, or a Kindle, or go on your phone. It’ll give you something to do, and you’ll be able to enjoy the experience much more. By the end of your trip, eating solo will feel like second nature – and you might even start to enjoy it!
Safety Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time
Stay Street Smart While Exploring Solo
When you’re travelling solo, especially for the first time, you are naturally more aware of your surroundings. But here’s the thing: there are just some things you just shouldn’t do, whether you’re in your hometown or halfway across the globe.
Solo travel is incredible, but a bit of street smarts goes a long way in keeping you safe. If taking a taxi is the safer and more convenient option, even if it’s a bit pricier, just do it. And if your research warns you that certain neighbourhoods are a no-go, trust that advice and simply avoid them. Stick to well-lit, tourist-friendly areas where you’re less likely to run into trouble.
At the end of the day, you don’t need to be paranoid about solo travel, but you do need to use your common sense and trust your gut. It just means that you’re more likely to have an amazing trip without putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
Some Things to Avoid on Your Solo Trip:
- Dodgy Destinations: If a place has a reputation for being unsafe (especially for solo female travellers), maybe save it for another time when you have a companion with you.
- Flashing Your Cash: You don’t need to be out here waving your money around. Instead, consider getting a travel money belt to keep valuables tucked away.
- Walking Home Alone at Night: A major no-no, especially if you’ve had a drink and your route involves dark, empty streets. It’s not worth the risk!
Download Google Maps for Easy Navigation
Did you know you can download Google Maps offline? It’s an absolute necessity, especially for solo trips!
Not only does it save you from having to connect to dodgy Wi-Fi or blowing through all your mobile data, but it’s also a lifesaver if you find yourself a little lost in an unfamiliar place. I relied on it heavily when I was driving through Morocco – as I ventured further off the beaten track, the connection was pretty much non-existent, but with offline maps, I could still rely on the sat-nav to guide us.
While we’re on the topic of downloads, don’t forget to download your Spotify playlist for any long journeys or moments of downtime on your solo adventure!
Keep Loved Ones Updated on Your Travel Plans
When you’re off on your first solo adventure, it’s a good idea to keep your loved ones in the loop. I’m not saying you need to be glued to your phone, giving them a play-by-play of your trip, but a quick message here and there makes a big difference.
For me, my family insisted on a daily update. It was no hassle to send them a quick text, and honestly, it put their minds at ease knowing I was safe. You could also share a copy of your travel planner with them so they know where you’ll be and when.
How to Meet People When Travelling Solo
Consider Joining a Group Tour for Certain Activities
If you’re feeling a wee bit wobbly about solo travel – whether it’s safety concerns, navigating a new country, or just the thought of eating alone – you could ease yourself in with a group tour. Yes, they can be pricey, but they’re also an amazing way to see all the main sights in a country and meet like-minded travellers. The best part? Everything is planned for you. No stressing over transport, accommodation, or activities. Just book, turn up, and enjoy the journey.
For my first solo adventure, I did exactly that. I booked a Highlights of Jordan group tour and then went fully solo for Croatia. I’d never been to the Middle East before, and while I’d heard Jordan was safe for travellers, I liked the idea of having a little extra reassurance, especially on my first solo trip.
Honestly, it was a great call. The tour covered all the must-see spots – Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea – and I met some amazing fellow solo travellers. Plus, it meant that by the time I got to Croatia, I felt so much more confident exploring on my own.
So, if you’re hovering over the “book now” button on your first solo trip but feeling a little unsure, a group tour might be the perfect way to dip your toes into solo travel. And who knows, you might just end up loving group travel so much that it becomes your new way of exploring.
Stay in Hostels to Meet Fellow Travellers
If you’re worried about feeling lonely on your solo adventure, staying in hostels is the way to go. Hostels aren’t just kind to your wallet — they’re also packed with fellow travellers who are just as eager to meet new people as you are.
Plus, there’s a hostel for everyone. Fancy pizza nights and wild pub crawls? There’s a hostel for that. Prefer a chilled-out vibe where you can sip tea, read a book, and chat about life? There’s a hostel for that too. You’re guaranteed to find somewhere that fits what you’re looking for.
If dorm rooms aren’t your thing, many hostels also offer private rooms, so you can still enjoy the social perks without being woken up by strangers coming and going at all hours of the night.
The bottom line? Hostels are fantastic if you want to meet people while travelling solo!
Put Yourself Out There and Try New Things
If you really want to make the most of solo travel, here’s the golden rule: put yourself out there. Yep, it’s as simple (and as terrifying) as that. It means exploring your surroundings, signing up for activities you’d never normally do, and striking up conversations with absolutely anyone and everyone.
Talking to locals and fellow travellers is pure gold. Not only will you meet fascinating people and get a peek into their world, but they’ll also give you the inside scoop on the best things to do, see, and eat – stuff you won’t find in any guidebook. After all, who better to ask about hidden gems than the locals who actually live there or travellers who have extensively explored the area?
So, push yourself to step out of your comfort zone. I promise you’ll be amazed at how much it boosts your confidence, and you never know who you might meet along the way. Solo travel is all about those little moments of connection.
Go on Walking Tours to Discover the City
One of the best ways to see a city – and meet people while you’re at it – is by joining a walking tour. When I was travelling solo, I did a walking tour in Warsaw and pretty much every city I visited in Croatia – Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik.
Not only do you get to wander around with a local guide who knows all the best spots, but you also pick up loads of interesting facts about the history, culture, and hidden gems. It’s sightseeing without the stress of planning it yourself!
If you’re on a tight budget, many cities offer free walking tours, so be sure to take advantage of them. Just remember — it’s customary to leave a tip at the end, especially if you enjoyed the tour!
Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Solo Trip
Pack Light for Easier Solo Travel
The last thing you want on a solo trip is to be dragging around heavy luggage. Packing light is the way to go, especially if you’re backpacking. When I went on my first solo adventure, I packed super light – I managed to get away with only a carry-on bag for the entire three weeks.
Sure, it limits what you can take with you, but the benefits far outweigh the sacrifices. Not only do you save money by avoiding pricey baggage fees, especially on budget airlines, but you’ll also save time by skipping the airport check-in and not having to wait at baggage claim. And honestly, once you’re back from your solo trip, you won’t even remember the things you had to leave behind because they didn’t fit in your bag.
Take Your Time and Don’t Rush
One of the absolute best things about solo travel is that you’re in charge. Yep, it’s your trip, your rules and your decisions. Want to sleep in? Go for it. Fancy grabbing a coffee and people-watching for an hour? You do you.
Take it slow and actually soak it all in. Skip the rush and just enjoy the simple things: have a leisurely lunch or dinner, sit on a beach (if you’re lucky enough to be near one), watch the waves roll in, or catch an unforgettable sunset.
Honestly, these are the moments that make solo travel so special. You’re free to just be and enjoy the little things. No schedule, no pressure – just you and your adventure. So go ahead, take a moment and really enjoy it!
What I Learned from Travelling Alone
In 2022, I went on my first solo adventure to Jordan and Croatia. I’d always wanted to travel alone at least once, but, you know… life got busy, and I kept putting it off. That was until I broke up with my long-term partner. And in a classic post-breakup move, I thought, Screw it. What better time to finally do this? Some people get a drastic haircut after a breakup – well… I booked a flight to Jordan. Same thing, really!
So, I started scouring the internet for flights to anywhere. That’s when I stumbled upon a ridiculously cheap flight to Jordan, leaving a month later. I mean £40 with a stopover in Warsaw, Poland? How could I say no? Before I could overthink it, I booked it.
Fast forward 30 days, and there I was, standing at the airport, questioning every single life decision that had led me to this moment. Now, don’t get me wrong – I love travelling. But standing there, alone, with my backpack and a boarding pass to a country I knew basically nothing about was terrifying. My excitement quickly turned into full-blown what-the-hell-am-I-doing panic.
And if you feel the same way before your first solo trip – congratulations, you’re human! It’s a big deal! You’re literally throwing yourself into the unknown with no safety net (except Google Maps, and even that betrays you sometimes). Let me tell you just how dramatic I was: I was in my late 20s, at the airport, crying down the phone to my mum because I was convinced I’d be lonely. Spoiler alert: I was so wrong.
That trip turned out to be exactly what I needed. Everywhere I went, I met incredible people from all over the world – fellow solo travellers, backpackers, and adventurers, all on their own journeys. And guess what? So many of them were also women navigating big life changes – breakups, career shifts, you name it.
A solo trip is so worth it – way better than getting that post-breakup fringe anyway!
What to Pack for Your First Solo Adventure
Packing for your first solo trip can feel overwhelming, so I’ve put together a quick list of must-have items. Don’t worry if you forget something, though, as you can usually pick it up in the country you’re visiting! If you’re going long-haul, check out what long flight essentials you’ll need for the journey.
- Travel documents – Passport, ID, travel insurance, visas, tickets, and digital copies of everything stored securely.
- Money and cards – A combination of cash and credit/debit cards in a secure travel money belt.
- Clothing – Pack versatile, comfortable clothes suitable for your destination, including layers and weather-appropriate items.
- Comfortable footwear – Bring comfy shoes that are good for walking, exploring, and any planned activities.
- Toiletries – Travel-sized items, reusable bottles, and essentials like toothbrush, deodorant, sunscreen, and any medications.
- Electronics – Phone, charger, headphones, portable power bank, and any adapters you might need.
- Safety items – Small first-aid kit and travel locks.
- Backpack or day bag – A reliable, comfortable bag for day trips and exploring on the go.
- Entertainment & comfort – Books, a journal, or a Kindle; a sleep mask or a neck pillow for long journeys.
- Reusable items – Water bottle and eco-friendly toiletries to reduce plastic waste while travelling.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Freedom of Solo Travel
Solo travel is an incredible journey of self-discovery, independence, and adventure. Travelling alone allows you to set your own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences without compromise.
While it may feel daunting at first, the freedom, confidence, and personal growth you gain are unmatched. You meet new people, forge meaningful connections, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself along the way.
Whether it’s a short city break or a long-term adventure, embracing solo travel opens doors to experiences you might never have had if you stayed at home. So take the leap, plan carefully, and remember: this journey is all about you, your choices, and your adventure.
Download Your Free Solo Travel Planner (Perfect for First-Time Travellers!)
As mentioned above, doing your research is key to a solo trip. To help you organise all the details – from flight information and essentials to accommodation and daily activities – use my completely free downloadable PDF Solo Travel Planner.
Print it off or edit it digitally – either way, it’ll help you feel more prepared for your first solo adventure. Plus, you can share it with loved ones so they feel less worried. To make things even easier, I’ve included a preview so you can see exactly what you’re getting before you hit download. Enjoy!
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Kirsty x
